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Hundreds gather to fight Fynn Valley quarry plans near Ipswich

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

A newly formed campaign group against proposed quarry development near Ipswich drew hundreds of residents at its first public meeting. More than 350 objections have already been lodged against plans for extracting 1.7 million tonnes of material from the Fynn Valley.

Why it matters: The proposed quarry would operate for 16 years and include a processing plant that would handle materials from other locations, potentially affecting three villages:

  • Westerfield

  • Tuddenham St Martin

  • Witnesham

The big picture: Local opposition has quickly mobilised since TRU7 Group announced its plans in August. Suffolk County Councillor Elaine Bryce joined villagers from multiple parishes including Ashbocking and Coddenham at Witnesham Parish Hall on Wednesday evening to organise their response.

Location of the proposed quarry near Ipswich
More than 350 objections have been lodged against plans for extracting 1.7 million tonnes of material from the Fynn ValleyGoogle Maps

Opposition views: Julia Barker, a Westerfield resident, warns of wider implications: "This doesn't only impact the immediate and surrounding villages but it will affect wider Ipswich as well, many of us know how bad the traffic is already!"

By the numbers:

  • 1.7 million tonnes of material to be extracted

  • 16-year operating period

  • 350 objections lodged so far

  • 21 days will be available for formal objections once plans are submitted

What's next: TRU7 Group, based in Kesgrave, has postponed its planned consultation with villagers from November to January. The company says plans remain at an early stage and no formal planning application has been submitted yet.

The response: The developer says it will engage extensively with the local community to minimise disruption if the proposal progresses, while promising to maximise employment opportunities and protect the environment.

The bottom line: As opposition grows, residents are raising concerns about the potential impact on both village life and wider Ipswich traffic congestion, with hundreds already mobilising against the plans.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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